Review: JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT Entertains at La Comedia Dinner Theatre

If you are looking for a lively, entertaining show to see as we wait for spring to finally arrive, you can find it onstage at LaComedia Dinner Theatre with their production of JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT running through April 14.

JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT is an early collaboration of composer Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyricist Tim Rice. The show puts a musical spin on the biblical tale of Joseph and his coat of many colors. It is one of the most accessible shows for those new to musical theatre as it brings to life a well-known story, uses multiple genres of music, it isn't too long and it never takes itself too seriously. Director Chris Beiser really amped up the campy factor with this production and on the day I saw the production, the whole audience was having a great time.

Brynn Owen (Narrator) and Troy Austin (Joseph) are both exceptional particularly in Owen's "A Pharoah's Story" and Austin's "Close Every Door". Both songs allow their characters to be delicate but powerful at the same time. While the entire ensemble is noteworthy, the brothers' harmonies in 'Those Canaan Days" are phenomenal and Desmond Thomas is spectacular with "Benjamin's Calypso". It was lovely to see the children's chorus as such an integral part of the show and all of them did a great job.

I found myself getting a little cynical during the curtain call portion of the show which is done as a lengthy mega mix of the show's music. Just as the words "why are they doing this?" went through my mind, I saw a little girl a few rows down from me, standing by her chair, dancing. She was having a ball trying to mimic the movements that the actors were doing on stage. Immediately, I saw the importance of the pure fun that the cast was having on stage as it grabbed this little girl and took her with them on their journey. That is what JOSEPH does so well. It allows you to get caught up in the moment and just have fun. She won't forget that experience and neither will I. It was one of the most special moments that I have ever witnessed.

JOSEPH continues its run at La Comedia Dinner Theatre with evening shows Thursday though Sunday and matinee performances on Thursday, Friday and Sunday until April 14. For tickets, call the box office at 937-746-4554 or 1-800-677-9505. You may also purchase tickets online at www.lacomedia.com. Also, on the website, you can find information about the menu available for each performance. Show tickets, including dinner, range from $61 to $75 and $30 for children 11 and under.

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